Moving songs recommended for high school students: classic and popular Japanese hits

beetle (specifically, a rhinoceros beetle)aiko

Beetle – aiko (Full)

This is a song that expresses a girl’s feelings.

It’s no exaggeration to say that aiko speaks for the sweet and bittersweet emotions of love that every girl experiences.

Aiko’s vocals are adorable, and her songs have a vibe that makes you want to fall in love—sure to make girls feel excited.

MiracleGReeeeN

GReeeeN – Kiseki

GReeeeN is a four-member group, and all of them work as dentists, so they perform without showing their faces.

Their four-part harmony is one of a kind, and they’re so popular that crowds gather at their concerts even though they don’t reveal their identities.

Recently, a film depicting the story of how GReeeeN was formed has been released, bringing them back into the spotlight.

Bridge of Gloryyuzu

Eikou no Kakehashi – Yuzu (Full)

Yuzu’s “Eikou no Kakehashi” (Bridge of Glory) is a song that has been loved for many years, and it’s performed almost every time Yuzu appears on TV music programs.

They also often sing Olympic image songs and the like, so many of their songs are very familiar to listeners.

YELLikimonogakari

Ikimono-gakari “YELL” Music Video

An emotionally moving number by Ikimono-gakari, cherished as a staple graduation song.

Its lyrics don’t treat parting as something merely sad, but as a new beginning toward each person’s dreams—words that are sure to bring tears to your eyes.

Even while burdened by anxiety and inner conflict about the future—like having wings but being unable to fly—the image of confronting one’s own weakness and moving forward into tomorrow stirs everyone’s heart.

Released in September 2009 as a double A-side single alongside the bright, poppy “Joyful,” the song was also selected as a required piece for the NHK All-Japan School Music Competition.

Though gentle in tone, this powerful track resonates deeply, encouraging those taking a new step forward with the bonds of their friends in their hearts.

Letter ~To You, Fifteen~Anjura Aki

Angela Aki “Letter ~Dear You, Fifteen~” Official Music Video (HD)

This song, which begins with the gentle sound of piano, is based on a letter Angela Aki wrote to her future self when she was 15.

The lyrics feel like an exchange of letters between a troubled 15-year-old “me” and the future self who replies—an especially moving piece.

It gently stays close to the emotional ups and downs of a sensitive time and seems to encourage you, reminding you that the future isn’t only dark.

Released in September 2008 as her eighth single, the track is also included on the album ANSWER.

It was chosen as a required piece for the NHK National School Music Contest, and is also known as a song featured on NHK’s Minna no Uta and as the theme song of the film “Have a Song on Your Lips.” It’s an inspiring anthem that will resonate with your heart as you graduate and set out on a new path.

KanadeSukima Suichi

Sukima Switch – “Kanade” Music Video : SUKIMASWITCH / KANADE Music Video

Sukima Switch’s “Kanade” is always among the top songs in karaoke rankings.

Recently, it was also chosen as a movie theme song, and it has become a track loved by people for a long time.

The lyrics and the melody—everything is perfect.

Sukima Switch also performs the song that became the theme song for a Doraemon movie.

I love youback number

back number – I Love You

Back number is a three-piece rock band that enjoys overwhelming support for their vividly descriptive lyrics.

This song is a warm number that reminds us that the most precious treasures are found in ordinary, everyday scenes.

From simple images like fallen leaves in a park or a bakery by the station, the lyrics convey a clumsy yet earnest desire to make a loved one happy—something that truly hits home.

Many listeners will likely be moved by its gentle worldview.

Released in October 2022, the song is also included on the album “Humor” and was selected as the theme song for the NHK morning drama “Maiagare!” Why not listen to it during a quiet moment—like on your way to school—while thinking of someone special?